Letter to Governor Cuomo on Fracking

August 29, 2012

Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo
State Capital
Albany, NY 12224

Dear Governor Cuomo:

I am writing today to urge you to reject the industry-led push to allow “Fracking” in New York State. The rush to drill is frought with known and expected problems. Fracking poses threats to: drinking water sources, air quality, worker health and safety, wildlife, vegetation and property values. Scientists and environmentalists are extremely concerned about the long-term public health impacts of Fracking and the diversion Fracking constitutes to pursuing a clean, renewable and safe energy future.

On November 2, 2011 I joined with government officials; physicians, scientists, civic and public interest organizations, farmers, winery operators, and other business-owners and a variety of citizens from all walks of life in signing a letter to you pointing out some of the devastating consequences of Fracking and with New York State’s approach to properly evaluating the environmental impact of this dangerous and unnecessary technology. Over 20,000 people signed this letter (see letter for a full list of signatories). The opposition is growing by the week as more people experience or learn about Fracking impacts.

Before you make a final decision on Fracking, it is incumbent on you to meet with some of the most knowledgeable opponents of this technology. I would be happy to assemble a small group of scientific and public health experts who can knowledgeably present the case against Fracking. Once you directly hear these arguments and cross-examine these experts in this dialogue, you will see the short and long-term problems with Fracking substantially outweigh the promised benefits.